Santa Claus banned from Oregon classrooms

HILLSBORO, Ore. (WTVD) --A school district in Oregon is joining many others around the country in a controversial decision to ban holiday symbols and decorations from the classroom. KATU reports Santa Claus is no longer welcome in Hillsboro Schools, outside Portland. The district told staff who wished to decorate offices or doors to refrain from religious-themed decorations or images, including Santa. The students are not allowed to wear anything Santa-themed, either. "It really went out as a notification to staff, not even parents, just to make sure they are being sensitive and thoughtful as they enter the holiday season," said Beth Graser, communications director for Hillsboro School District. Some parents, though, think this new rule is unnecessary. "I'm from that generation where we believe in Santa, and my kids believe in Santa, and they should be able to celebrate it," said one parent. School officials said they just want to make sure all cultures and backgrounds are comfortable at school.